🌴 Hidden Paradise of Egypt! Didn’t Expect THIS in Hurghada

“I thought I was just visiting another beach town—turns out, I discovered one of Egypt’s most unexpected treasures.”


✈️ From the Bustling Streets of Giza to the Serenity of the Red Sea

Good morning from Giza! My journey through Egypt had already been packed with pyramids and traffic, but I was craving something calmer—something coastal. That’s when I decided to head to Hurghada, a vibrant city on the Red Sea I’d only heard whispers about.

We booked a bus ride via BookAway, wanting to avoid the chaos of last-minute local transport. But, of course, this is Egypt—so nothing ever goes quite as planned.


🚌 The Road to Hurghada: Delays, Laughter & Desert Views

Our journey started late. What was supposed to be a smooth 3:40 p.m. departure turned into a 4:15 p.m. wait-and-wonder moment. The bus station felt more like a giant parking lot than anything organized.

Still, we made it on board—a big relief. The seats were decent, the A/C worked, and we were treated to desert landscapes, rugged roads, and eventually… a glimpse of the Red Sea shimmering in the distance.

We made a short stop at Zafarana House, a roadside rest stop with food courts and plenty of local snacks. Pizza at a desert pit stop? Surprisingly delicious (or maybe I was just starving).

By the time we reached Hurghada, it was 11:15 p.m.—over two hours behind schedule. Tired but excited, we grabbed a cheap inDrive to our hotel (just 70 EGP, or 70 cents each). A clean, cozy room for €6 a person? Not bad at all.


🌞 First Glimpse of Paradise: Palm Trees, Sea Breeze & an Early Sunrise

At 6:30 a.m., I stepped onto our hotel balcony and gasped. A promenade of palm trees lined the coast, and the Red Sea glistened in the morning light. It was already warm, and I couldn’t wait to start the day.

We had booked an 8-hour island-hopping snorkeling tour for just €40 per person through Get Your Guide. Our host even served us breakfast early—banana, bread, cream cheese—just because we looked hungry. Egyptian hospitality is something else.


🐠 Snorkeling, Seafood & the Baby Shark Crew

Our boat’s name? Baby Shark. Yes, really.

It was a cozy vessel with only 8 travelers, which felt like a miracle once we passed boat after boat packed to the brim. We cruised past sandstone mountains, soaked up sun on the front deck, and laughed as the salty wind tangled our hair.

I even braided mine for the first time on the trip—snorkeling was no joke.

The first stop: Mega Wish Island. Not much on land, but under the water? A dream. Coral reefs, colorful fish, and even opening-and-closing mussels. It was like floating inside a live-action aquarium.


🏝️ Nemo Island & Orange Bay: From Serenity to Social Media Madness

Nemo Island was peaceful. We waded through clear shallows, posed on swings, and simply soaked in the view. It was the kind of place you don’t want to leave.

Orange Bay, on the other hand, was… chaotic. Beautiful, yes—with wooden bars and swings over the water—but built for Instagram, not snorkeling. The crowds were overwhelming. Still, we made the best of it, found a quieter spot, and collected heart-shaped shells.


🍤 Seafood Lunch in the Middle of the Sea

Lunch on the boat was a seafood lover’s dream: shrimp, calamari, and grilled fish, all included. We lounged on the sun deck, belly full, heart full. This wasn’t just a tour—it was a memory I’d hold onto forever.


💡 Tips for Traveling Egypt by Bus (and Not Getting Sunburned Like Me)

  • Always plan for delays when taking buses—at least 2 extra hours.
  • Bring strong sunscreen. The Red Sea sun is sneaky. I reapplied three times and still got scorched.
  • Travel light on boat tours: sunglasses, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and maybe a rash guard.
  • Choose small tours over big boats. It makes a world of difference.
  • Most importantly? Stay an extra day in Hurghada. One day is not enough.

🌍 Where Will Your Egyptian Adventure Begin?

After a journey like this—sunburns, saltwater, swings, and smiles—one thing’s clear: Egypt has more magic than I ever expected.
If you’re dreaming of discovering the Red Sea or waking up to ancient views in Giza, don’t wait.

I booked all my stays through Booking.com, and it made everything easier—from last-minute hotel changes to finding the perfect spot by the sea.

✨ Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a once-in-a-lifetime trip, start with the right place to stay.


🧠 FAQ: What You Should Know Before Visiting Hurghada

1. Is Hurghada worth visiting if you’re already in Cairo or Giza?

Absolutely. It’s a different vibe—laid-back, coastal, and filled with natural beauty. Great contrast to the city life of Cairo.

2. What’s the best way to get from Cairo/Giza to Hurghada?

Bus or private car. It’s cheaper than flying and offers stunning desert and Red Sea views along the way. Just book ahead and prepare for delays.

3. Can beginners enjoy snorkeling in Hurghada?

Yes! Most Red Sea tours provide basic equipment, and guides will help first-timers. Just wear a life vest and relax.

4. Is Hurghada safe for travelers?

Yes. It’s one of the more tourist-friendly cities in Egypt. Just use common sense like you would anywhere else.

5. What’s better: Mega Wish Island, Nemo Island, or Orange Bay?

For snorkeling: Mega Wish. For relaxation: Nemo. For Instagram pics: Orange Bay. Each has its vibe.


🌅 Final Thoughts: Egypt’s Coast Deserves Your Time

I had no idea what to expect from Hurghada. What I found was a hidden paradise—warm people, gorgeous reefs, and a rhythm of life that made me want to pause everything and just… float.

Whether you’re into adventure, photography, or just watching the sun dip below the Red Sea, Hurghada belongs on your bucket list.

✨ Next time, I’m staying longer. Maybe you should too.

Tell us if you have visited this place before.

Enjoy!

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